The PSP was a pioneer in handheld gaming when it launched, offering console-quality graphics and ambitious titles long before smartphones entered the conversation. Though it received plenty of praise during its prime, some of the best PSP games have flown under the radar. While major hits like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories tiger298 drew attention, a deeper dive into the PSP library reveals a wealth of underrated gems that still hold up incredibly well.
One such title is Jeanne d’Arc, a tactical RPG developed by Level-5. The game blends history and fantasy, reimagining the story of Joan of Arc with magical elements and turn-based strategy. It features an intuitive yet deep battle system and beautiful hand-drawn art that stands out even by today’s standards. The game was critically praised but never achieved mainstream success, which is a shame given its unique premise and accessible gameplay. For fans of RPGs and strategy titles, Jeanne d’Arc remains one of the best PSP games that many missed.
Another overlooked title is LocoRoco, a quirky, physics-based platformer that oozes charm. In the game, you control a blobby creature by tilting the world, rather than the character itself. Its colorful visuals, infectious music, and playful level design make it a standout among PSP platformers. Despite receiving positive reviews, LocoRoco didn’t gain widespread fame, perhaps due to its unconventional mechanics. However, those who gave it a chance discovered a game bursting with creativity and fun. Its originality is a reminder of how the PSP served as a testing ground for fresh ideas.
Killzone: Liberation is another strong contender for the most underrated action title on the PSP. While the main Killzone franchise made waves on home consoles, its PSP entry took a different approach, shifting to an isometric tactical shooter style. The result was a surprisingly deep and polished combat experience that suited handheld gaming perfectly. It featured intense firefights, intelligent enemy AI, and a great co-op mode. Despite being overshadowed by its console counterparts, Killzone: Liberation showcased what could be done when developers tailored gameplay to the strengths of portable hardware.
These hidden gems represent the versatility and depth of the PSP’s game catalog. They might not have received the spotlight they deserved, but they continue to be discovered and praised by retro gaming enthusiasts today. Whether you’re revisiting the handheld or exploring it for the first time, digging into these lesser-known PSP games can feel like unearthing forgotten treasures that enrich the legacy of portable gaming.